Blueprint is set out for a return to shinty by game's governing body

The Camanachd Association board of directors last night backed the competition committee’s plans for the 2021 season including a mini league competition and Camanachd Cup and other cup contests.

Following the positive news that all clubs had registered for the 2021 season, committee members were able to draw up a number of options for a return to playing competitive shinty.

It was agreed that, when it is safe to return, clubs will be given a four to six week pre-season in order to get fitness and stick work back up to the required standard.

This will be followed by a league and cup campaign which is likely to involve.

* Abbreviated Mowi leagues of 6 teams giving 10 league fixtures for each team. How these leagues will be split will be determined on locality, although the association said it recognises the tiered system Scotland is likely to return to will also have some bearing.

* Regional competitions such as the cottages.com MacTavish Cup and Celtic Cup may be moved to a later stage in the season, subject to necessary agreements.

* National cup competitions will be regionalised in the early rounds to reduce long distance travelling. This will include the Tulloch Homes Camanachd Cup, Highland Industrial Supplies Sutherland Cup and the Alvance Balliemore Cup.

With the rollout of the Covid-19 vaccine under way, the Camanachd Association board said it was mindful of developing a flexible structure that can be delivered in line with government guidance and activated when restrictions allow.

This plan includes reduced travel for teams in the first instance.

Camanachd Association President Steven MacKenzie said: “I, and indeed all of my fellow directors, were pleased to endorse the plan put forward to us by the competitions committee.

"I would like to thank competitions director Burton Morrison as well as the full committee for developing a robust plan that enables us to maximise our shinty playing opportunities while minimising the risk.

"We are all eager to return to play shinty in line with government guidance and with this plan in place we are one step closer to doing so.”

Mr Morrison said: “Under the current restrictions, we are unable to confirm a start date at the present time for the revised season.

"However, we are optimistic that we are able to plan for a number of options for a competitive structure which will give teams the opportunity to get back playing.

"The form of season adopted will depend on the length of time available.

"We will allow for adequate pre-season preparation, and will take account of the practical difficulties involved in travelling long distances at present, as well as the recognised key dates on the calendar."

Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.